Amsterdam People

It’s been a while for a blog update, very busy traveling to USA, trying to close up loose ends selling my old furniture and renting my condo.

Last month, I went to Amsterdam with my parents to visit (always love that city). While they went to a couple of museums that I had visited earlier in the summer, I decided to go out and try some street photography (as most of you know, normally shoot landscape with no people). I’d be interested to hear your feedback on these pictures, whether you like them or not, and why. Thanks! Laurent

In this first shot, I liked the cross section of the people at this restaurant. There just seemed to be so many conversations going on, different lives on different paths.

People dining at Rijksmuseum

In this second shot, I liked the leading lines of different faces. I decided to do some selective coloring because one woman was wearing some bright pants.

Amsterdam people soaking in the sun at Rijksmuseum

In this third shot, I saw these two girls just take off on a scooter. I really liked the flowers hanging off and the reflection of the girl’s face in the mirror.

Two Amsterdam ladies riding off on a Scooter

In these last two shots, I was experimenting with reflections on glass and what was going on in the reflection and behind it.

12 Comments

Laurent,
I really dig ALL of these shots for different reasons. My favorite is the first … the somewhat panoramic format of the many conversations over a meal. What I find most interesting is, that among all those people, only the movement of one person is really detectable. Love the second reflection shot as well. Looks like two separate images stitched together with no real reflection in the left portion, while the right 2/3rds of the image looks like ghostbusters … It has been amazing watching your work evolve over the last couple years. I could learn a whole lot from you, Sir.
Ken

Ken,
Thanks for the comments, very interesting to hear another point of view. I agree with much of what you said. If I had to pick a favorite, I would have to go with number 3. I really like the captured moment of the girls, flowers in hand, smile in the mirror. I just think it shows a great time of life, nothing like being young and happy. I again appreciate your kinds comments and nice to hear from you. Cheers Laurent

Laurent,
You have such an amazing eye! I love the first photo-I feel as if I’m observing it all. The panoramic effect captures the scene perfectly. The third shot with the scooter is brilliant-love how you captured the reflection in the mirror and the flowers add spontaneity. I like the bright blue color and the softness of the background. I love everything about this photo. I think you have a knack for street photography! You make me want to go take some pictures! I look forward to seeing more.
Candace

Thanks for the nice comments Candace. It was fun walking around Amsterdam seeking out different people pictures. Normally when I travel I steer clear of big cities other than a couple of days to see the museums or must see sights, then I get back to my landscape. This series of images gave me a new interest in roaming the city, lots of fun. Laurent

Great shots, your eye is developing very nicely. Keep playing with effects, glass and water reflections are great to work with. you can take my picture any day. so call me now that you are in town, I do not have your #.